Brisket Question

gfavor

I want to grill my 1st brisket.  I know they are a challenge so I want to get started the right way.  From what I've researched folks recommend using a 7+ lbs brisket.  I was at Costco and they had 3-4 lbs briskets (flat).  I can also get larger ones at local markets.  I'll be cooking for just my wife and I.  So my Question is: Is it ok to use a smaller piece of meat (3-4 lbs) or go with something heavier?  Do the larger ones cook better, more forgiving, better flavor, etc?

Also if you have some good how-to instructions/links that have worked for you please share, I need lots of help )

Thanks for your input.

SGH

Let me offer this and I will leave the rest to the more accomplished. The small flats are much harder to cook to perfection than a packer. Why? The lack of marbling and thermal mass. The larger intact packers cook much better than flats alone. This is not my opinion, it's absolute fact. You asked do the larger ones cook better, have more flavor and are they more forgiving? Absolutely my friend. No question of it.

SGH

Of all the how to methods out there, for cooking brisket on the egg, I like this one the best. It just works and works well. http://bubbatim.com/Bubba_s_Brisket.php

Raideregg

I agree with SGH on the smaller briskets, they are a little harder to guage.  The best thing I have found for a brisket is use a thermocoupler  check the temp and watch your heat.  Its a tough piece of meat to cook, but once you follow the steps an awesome piece of meat to consume. Watch the Temp!  Do not over cook the brisket or it will be a hockey puck! 

dldawes1

+1 on SGHs above comments....... !!!

fence0407

The first one I cooked was a 4.5lb flat from Costco that turned out excellent. The second one I cooked was a 3.5lb flat from Costco that was ok - probably user error. I say start with a flat and get a feel for it. It's a lot of meat and plenty for you and your wife. I'm looking to do a full packer next when I can find some more people to come over and eat it.

Here is a post I did my first flat that turned out really good. Might give you some ideas if you end up getting a smaller flat.

http://eggheadforum.com/discussion/1164120/first-brisket-flat/p1

Enjoy!

dldawes1

@FENCE0407....I'll pay the sacrifice and come over and help you eat a brisket !! Just send me directions !